Anonymous complaints and whistleblowing

a. BABCP recognises that making a complaint can be very difficult, particularly where the complaint relates to mental health care, psychological therapies, or the therapeutic relationship. However, BABCP is normally unable to act on anonymous complaints because this may make it difficult to obtain relevant evidence, may be unfair to the Member against whom the complaint is made, and may interfere with their ability to respond to the complaint.

b. BABCP will, however, consider anonymous complaints or confidential disclosures made by a whistleblower where the concerns raised are capable of being independently verified or assessed, and where the identity of the Complainant is not relevant to the issue complained about. Such complaints could include issues concerning:

i. Criminal convictions and cautions;

ii. Information already in the public domain, such as in newspapers or on public social media accounts; or

iii. Decisions published by other regulators, accredited registers, or professional bodies.

c. Where a complaint is made anonymously, the Complaints and Resolution Manager may determine that BABCP should proceed as the Complainant where:

i. There is sufficient information to verify and substantiate the concerns; and/or

ii. The identity of the Complainant is not relevant to the issues raised; and/or

iii. It is reasonable and necessary to protect the public, maintain public confidence in the profession, or uphold professional standards.

d. The Screening Panel may reconsider the decision to proceed with BABCP acting as Complainant when they determine whether the complaint meets the Realistic Prospect Test.

e. BABCP recognises the challenges that can arise when raising a concern under its Whistleblowing Policy. Where a confidential disclosure is made by a whistleblower, BABCP will handle the matter in accordance with its Whistleblowing Policy and take all possible steps to protect the whistleblower’s anonymity, while providing appropriate support and reassurance throughout the process.